The Portage Terriers wrapped up a perfect weekend against the Steinbach Pistons beating them 4-3 on Sunday night. It marks the fourth win in a row for the Terriers and fourth this season against the Pistons.
The game was a tight checking back and forth affair with much of the pressure coming from the Pistons. Mitchell Kathler faced 45 shots in the Terriers goal and was his team's best player.
Steinbach opened the scoring in the first period before Portage scored three straight. Dawson Madden scored on a one timer, Nolan Nenow roofed a backhand in tight and Kyan Grouette snapped one home from the slot. For Grouette it was his first as a Terrier. The Pistons got back on the board late in the second period with a goal from Brett Kaiser. 3-2 Portage after 2.
The refs let the players sort things out with only two minor penalties being called all night, both against the Terriers. Ty Paisley received a penalty shot after Will McKay closed his hand on the puck in the crease but Kathler shut the door.
Portage came out firing in the third period and extended their lead when Rhett Platt scored his first as a Terrier. After a spirited tilt between Breck Hirrschoff and Ryan McDonald the Pistons were fired up and quickly drew to within one. Kathler would lock in and shut them down the rest of the way giving his team the win.
Portage will now rest up this week and get ready for a match next weekend with the Swan Valley Stampeders.